Bird feeder

Abstract

A bird feeder is provided having a pivotal wire bail to allow the top cap to be lifted and rotated away from the top opening for easy filling of bird food without unnecessary spillage. Additionally, the invention provides for a detachable base cap having a spring clip retention feature that holds the base cap in place when in use but provides for its intentional removal when desired for cleaning purposes. The feeder has an optional detachable tray where birds can rest while feeding. The invention also provides multiple embodiments, having a body constructed of metal or plastic alternatives. The metal bodies, preferably tubular in shape, are each formed of perforated or expanded metal, having holes therethrough, the size of the holes being dependent upon the size of the seed or other feed selected. The plastic tube feeder provides feeder ports for seed access, as well as rotatable perches for the birds to rest on while feeding.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to bird feeders, and more specifically to a bird feeder having a top cap that may be rotated off of, and away from, the body for filling and cleaning purposes, but remain attached to the feeder. This is accomplished through the use of a rotatable wire bail attached to the body by bail retaining pins. The invention also has a readily removable base cap that can be detached and easily reattached for cleaning purposes without the use of tools. The feeder has various alternative embodiments, including a body manufactured of plastic with rotatable perches and embodiments where the body is made of perforated metal with various feed hole sizes. The feeder may also have a tray attachment.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]There are various sizes and configurations of bird feeders that are used to provide wild birds with a ready supply of food, mainly in the form of seed. Many feeders provide a tray and / or perch on which the bird may rest as it...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a bird feeder with several technical effects. Firstly, the feeder has an interior that can be fully accessed for efficient filling and cleaning purposes. Secondly, the feeder is easier and less expensive to manufacture. Thirdly, the feeder can be modified to accommodate different feed. Fourthly, the feeder is durable when exposed to the elements. Fifthly, the feeder has a removable top cap for cleaning and filling purposes. Lastly, the feeder has rotatable perches. These technical effects make the feeder more convenient, economical, and adaptable to different needs."

Problems solved by technology

One problem encountered is that feeders are hung outdoors and the feeder and its contents are exposed to the elements.

If the seed gets wet due to exposure to precipitation, it can be subject to decay and the growth of mold or mildew, making it undesirable for feeding purposes.

Although most feeders may open to some extent on top for filling purposes, it is quite difficult with a long tubular feeder to thoroughly clean the feeder without having a removable top and bottom so that the entire tube may be accessed and cleaned.

Images